Gambia confirms U.S. pressure over Starlink license despite ongoing review
Gambia’s Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Lamin Jabbi, has confirmed that the U.S. State Department and the U.S. Embassy in Banjul have been actively pressing the Gambian government to fast-track regulatory approval for Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite internet service.
Jabbi made the disclosure before the National Assembly on Monday in response to questions from Banjul Central lawmaker Abdoulie Njai about potential foreign interference in the country’s digital infrastructure decisions.
Jabbi explained that while Gambia’s communications regulator, PURA, had recommended Starlink for a Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) license, his assumption of office prompted a deeper review of the license application. He said this scrutiny was necessary to ensure compliance with Gambian laws and international best practices, the Standard reports.
“Upon review, I identified several critical issues surrounding the license that required further analysis and consultations, including at the cabinet level,” Jabbi said, adding that Starlink was later found not to qualify under the VSAT category, triggering a reassessment.
The minister confirmed that both Starlink and U.S. officials repeatedly followed up, including during his visit to Washington for World Bank meetings, where the issue was raised again. “Interpretations may vary depending on jurisdiction and culture. However, it is true that the U.S. State Department, U.S. Embassy, and Starlink have been very persistent and critical in their follow-up,” he noted.
Jabbi emphasised that the delay stems from the disruptive nature of Starlink’s technology and the need to consider the country economic, political, social, and security implications. The final decision, he said, will be made at the cabinet level and communicated accordingly.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
